Targeting Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA) to Impact Preterm Birth

Pregnancy and parturition involve extensive changes in the maternal immune system. In this module, Dr. Valentine will review the latest research on the impact of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) on preterm birth.

CPEU: 0.75
CPE Level: 2

The CPE associated with this activity expires on 08/19/2025.

Performance Indicators:

• 6.2.3 Analyzes and interprets data to form valid conclusions and to make recommendations.
• 6.3.2 Utilizes innovative ways to disseminate research findings considering the target audiences.
• 10.3.9 Leads the implementation of nutrition interventions in collaboration with clients/patients and the interprofessional team.

Learning Objectives

• Define the importance of DHA in pregnancy.
• Outline key Dietary DHA recall or blood levels associated with increased risk of Preterm Birth.
• Identify foods and supplements to use in practice to boost DHA.

Speaker

Christina J. Valentine MD, MS, RD, FAAP

Christina J. Valentine is a physician and a dietitian focused on diet and nutrient strategies to improve perinatal outcomes. She is double boarded in Pediatrics and Neonatology. She is a Professor in the Department of Pediatrics, Banner University Medicine, The University of Arizona and is a Clinical Neonatologist. Her academic training began with a graduate degree in Nutrition at The University of Florida. Medical school, internship, and residency at Baylor College of Medicine and Texas Children's Hospital and her Neonatal Fellowship was completed at Nationwide Children’s/The Ohio State University. Dr. Valentine has worked in the area of human milk research for 30 years and is a long- time member and former board member of the International Society for Research in Human Milk and Lactation (ISRHML) and former board member and now section chair for Neonatology for the American Society of Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition (ASPEN).